I usually do not like sequels, but I made an exception for “Gladiator 2.” This movie takes place in Rome like the last movie and focuses on a child introduced then: Lucius Verus Aurelius, who was the former heir to the Roman Empire before he fled for safety. 

     In the movie, Lucius, played by up-and-coming actor Paul Mescal also gets sold into the gladiator business and has to prove his worth — which he easily does, as he is fueled by his rage. I could almost feel his anger towards the Romans through the screen; Mescal’s performance was that genuine. 

     The movie was incredibly crafted, and there were no better actors than the ones chosen to play the iconic characters. I highly recommend seeing this movie for those comfortable with on-screen violence.

Amanda Kramer, Staff Writer